Honda VT 500 E (reduced Effect) - 1986 Specifications and Reviews
The 1986 Honda VT 500 E is an accessible middleweight cruiser designed for novice and budget-conscious riders seeking reliable, manageable performance. Its liquid-cooled V-twin engine delivers modest 27 horsepower with smooth shaft-drive power delivery, while the lightweight 204 kg frame ensures easy handling. Known for affordable ownership and dependable Japanese engineering, it remains an excellent entry-level machine.
General information | |
| Category | Unspecified category |
| Year | 1986 |
| Model | Honda VT 500 E (reduced effect) |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Bore x stroke | 71.0 x 62.0 mm (2.8 x 2.4 inches) |
| Compression | 10.5:1 |
| Power | 27.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 491.00 ccm (29.96 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 204.0 kg (449.7 pounds) |
Honda VT 500 E (reduced Effect) dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 120/80-18 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-18 |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 137.0 km/h (85.1 mph) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
27 hp
Peak Power
9.5s
0-60 mph
85.1 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City60%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding60%
Touring45%
Passenger40%
Rider Profile
| Best For | This is a beginner-friendly machine, well suited to new riders or those wanting a restricted-power learner bike, noting this appears to be a reduced-power (learner-legal) variant of the VT500E rather than a full-power version. |
| Purpose | It's built as an approachable, practical middleweight for learning the ropes of riding and handling everyday commuting and short rides rather than performance riding. |
| Rider Fit | A moderate 204 kg curb weight with a shaft drive makes it manageable and low-maintenance, though the shaft drive adds slightly more heft and a different feel in corners compared to chain-driven rivals. |
| Character | The liquid-cooled V-twin gives a smooth, torquey, easygoing character typical of Honda's 1980s V2 middleweights, prioritizing rideability and low-end usability over outright thrills. |
| Not Ideal For | This is not the bike for riders seeking high speed thrills, aggressive cornering performance, or any serious off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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